Know When to Apply for a Job You Are Not Eligible For
Most job descriptions explain the skills an employer wants from a job seeker. Muse says if you think you can do 80% of what they want, go ahead and apply.
The Muse advises not to assume you’re out of luck if you don’t meet all the job requirements. The key here is the 80/20 rule : if you have 80% of the minimum qualification, apply. An employer may ask too much on a job application, so that will be your foot in the door.
If you are close to that 80%, you need to explain how you will get to that 80% in your cover letter or first interview:
Look at the skills you don’t have. Which ones could you learn by signing up for classes or gaining new experiences?
Then, look back at your career history to date. Can you think of three times when you had to quickly learn something new? Or quickly adapt to a new challenge? Write down these examples. There is evidence that can be used.
If you are not even close to the minimum requirements, then you need to first understand why you want to get this job. Follow the link for more job tips that are close to your experience and skills, but not ideal.
Should you be applying for this job that is out of reach – or not? | Muse